MAC poll shows majority in Taiwan disapprove of China’s threats

From Taiwan Today 2019-05-17

The overwhelming majority of people in Taiwan oppose China’s military threats and ongoing efforts to suppress the country’s international space, according to a poll released May 16 by the Cabinet-level Mainland Affairs Council.

Around 82 percent of respondents said such actions undermine the cross-strait status quo, as well as regional peace and stability. A total of 88 percent view China barring Taiwan from the activities, mechanisms and meetings of the World Health Organization as jeopardizing the well-being and human rights of the people.

In addition, 84 percent reject the “one China, two systems” approach proposed by Beijing, and 89 percent believe only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to determine the nation’s future and direction of cross-strait ties.

Around 84 percent disapprove of China’s ongoing campaign of coercion against Taiwan involving the use of dollar diplomacy in poaching allies. A total of 82 percent disagree with Beijing's attempts to destabilize local society and achieve unification through manipulating the media and spreading disinformation.

The poll also identified strong support for the government’s response to China’s actions. More than 75 percent approve of recent legislation and regulatory amendments to strengthen national security, while 79 percent back President Tsai Ing-wen’s efforts safeguarding freedom and democracy.

The MAC said the results clearly demonstrate China should abandon its strategy of malicious provocation and not misjudge the public consensus, adding that only in this way can cross-strait relations improve.